Federal Union Will Use Austin Attack to Press for Greater Security for Agencies and Employees

National Treasury Employees Union president Colleen Kelley says the attack on an Internal Revenue Service office in Austin yesterday demonstrates the need for a new, moderated discourse around government, and for greater security measures for federal employees:

This incident brings to light an ongoing concern that the atmosphere in our nation debases and denigrates the work of federal employees and contributes to such actions. Too often, frustration with policies or politics takes the form of attacks on public servants, which is never justified and can contribute to misguided rage against federal workers.

Sadly, certain groups of federal employees, such as IRS employees and federal law enforcement officers, are more likely to become targets of irate citizens. It can be dangerous for federal workers to try to carry out their missions; still, they do because they know the public depends on them for vital services. It is for that reason that I call on our country's leaders and all Americans to stand with IRS employees and all federal employees today and every day in support of their contributions to our nation.

I know that people around the country are horrified by this criminal act and that the vast majority of Americans appreciate the hard work and commitment of the civil servants who so diligently do the work of our country.

NTEU will work with the administration and members of Congress to ensure that extra security measures are taken to protect federal workers across government, but we also need a more responsible level of discourse in our country about the work of government. Anger or resentment over government policies, whether it be tax policy or airline security measures, should never lead to attacks on innocent workers. Through their skill, expertise and commitment to duty, federal workers enhance the quality of life in our country. They deserve our respect and support.